Paul Erhart

Chalmers University of Technology invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in the field of glass dynamics at ab-initio accuracy using generative AI. The successful candidate will join the Division of Condensed Matter and Materials Physics within the Department of Physics, a vibrant research environment with expertise spanning materials science, nanotechnology, life science, and energy research. The division is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, combining theoretical, methodological, and computational techniques in close collaboration with experimental groups both locally and internationally. The research project focuses on the simulation of organic and inorganic glass-forming systems, leveraging generative AI models and machine-learned interatomic potentials to achieve near-quantum-mechanical accuracy at experimentally relevant time scales. The project aims to develop AI-driven frameworks for understanding multi-component glass formation and to provide new tools for designing advanced amorphous materials. Applications include optoelectronics and pharmaceuticals, where organic glasses offer unique optical properties, flexibility, and low weight. As a doctoral student, you will take advanced courses within the Graduate School of Physics, develop your own scientific concepts, and communicate your research findings both verbally and in writing. The position also includes the opportunity to teach at the undergraduate level or perform other duties up to 20% of your working hours, potentially extending the appointment to five years. The starting salary is 34,550 SEK per month (from May 25, 2025), and you will enjoy full employee benefits, including access to Swedish language courses, generous parental leave, subsidized day care, and healthcare. Applicants must have a relevant Master's degree (or equivalent), strong English communication skills, and a background in physics or computational chemistry. Interest in machine learning and molecular simulation is essential, and experience with frameworks such as torch or JAX is a plus. The position requires physical presence in Sweden for the duration of the studies, and a valid residence permit must be presented by the start date. Chalmers is committed to diversity, equality, and inclusion, and actively supports gender balance through initiatives like the GENIE project. To apply, prepare your application in English, including a CV, personal letter, motivation, and transcripts, and submit all documents as PDFs via the application portal. The deadline for applications is April 17, 2026. For further information, contact Professor Paul Erhart at [email protected].

This postdoctoral position at Chalmers University of Technology offers a unique opportunity to advance research at the intersection of soft matter physics and renewable energy. Based in the Division of Condensed Matter and Materials Theory within the Department of Physics and Astronomy, the project focuses on the coarse-grained modeling of organic photovoltaic materials, specifically targeting the structure and dynamics of acceptor mixtures for organic solar cells (OSCs). Organic solar cells represent a promising third-generation photovoltaic technology, with state-of-the-art non-fullerene acceptors (NFAs) achieving efficiencies above 19%. However, the long-term thermal stability of these devices remains a significant challenge, particularly in multi-component NFA mixtures. The project aims to address this by developing coarse-grained molecular dynamics models that can scale from neat NFAs to binary and many-component mixtures. The research will focus on two core challenges in coarse-graining: representability and transferability. The resulting models will help identify how molecular features and mixture composition govern glass-forming ability, ultimately generating design rules for thermally stable OSC morphologies. The Division of Condensed Matter and Materials Theory is renowned for its theoretical, methodological, and computational approaches to materials science, often collaborating with experimental groups both locally and internationally. The research environment is dynamic and interdisciplinary, spanning nanotechnology, energy research, and fundamental materials science. As a postdoctoral researcher, you will develop and validate coarse-grained models for neat and mixed NFA systems, derive design rules for stable, glassy OSC morphologies, and have the opportunity to co-supervise master's and doctoral students. You are encouraged to develop your own scientific concepts and communicate your findings both verbally and in writing. The position is a full-time employment for two years, with the possibility of a one-year extension, and requires physical presence in Gothenburg, Sweden. Chalmers offers a comprehensive benefits package, including parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, and healthcare. Swedish language courses are available for non-native speakers, and the university is committed to gender equality and diversity through initiatives like GENIE. Applicants must hold a doctoral degree in physics, chemistry, materials science, or a related field, with hands-on experience in molecular dynamics simulation and coarse-graining methods. A background in organic semiconductors or photovoltaic materials is highly advantageous. Candidates should be motivated, able to work independently, and interested in research that bridges fundamental methodology and real-world application. A valid residence permit is required by the start date. To apply, prepare your application in English and attach all documents as PDF files. Include a comprehensive CV with a publication list, details of teaching experience, and a personal letter outlining your research background and future goals. Use the provided application form link to submit your documents. The deadline for applications is June 1, 2026. For questions, contact Professor Paul Erhart at [email protected]. Chalmers University of Technology is a leading institution in technology and natural sciences, fostering scientific excellence, sustainability, and innovation in close collaboration with society. The university is located in Gothenburg, Sweden, offering a vibrant academic and cultural environment.